A Plympton-based animal charity has raised alarms about the increasing rates of pet homelessness driven by the region’s housing crisis. Woodside Animal Welfare Sanctuary reports a growing waiting list of animals needing assistance, many of which are already in its care due to their owners becoming homeless.
With the West Country’s housing crisis a central issue in this week’s General Election, the charity highlighted the severe impact of homelessness on pets. Sanctuary manager Dawn Cornish noted that the scarcity of affordable housing, rental properties, and temporary accommodations is making it increasingly difficult for people to keep their pets.
“These individuals are already under immense stress, and losing their beloved animals adds to their burdens,” Cornish stated. “It’s truly heartbreaking.”
“The situation is deteriorating as more people lose their homes and move into rented or temporary housing. Additionally, the availability of rental properties is dwindling.”
Recent figures indicate that demand for temporary accommodation in Plymouth has surged by 158% since 2019/20, with 413 households currently applying, up from 160 four years ago. According to the charity Shelter, insufficient construction of social housing is pushing people towards more expensive private rentals.
The latest ONS data shows that the average private rent in Plymouth stands at £873 per month. Among those affected by the housing crisis are German Shepherd Charlie and Akita X Hugo. Hugo, a five-year-old, was recently taken in by Woodside after his owner lost both his job and home.
Charlie, a German Shepherd, was returned to the Sanctuary in February due to his owner’s homelessness. Though a new home was found for Charlie, he had to be returned when his new owner developed allergies.
Both Charlie and Hugo have now found new homes and are expected to leave the Sanctuary soon. However, many more animals are waiting to be admitted, including an Alaskan Malamute from a repossessed home, pets from families moving into rental housing, and pets from owners facing eviction.
The charity’s cattery faces a similar situation, with over 100 cats and kittens currently in care, many due to homelessness.
In 2023, the Renters Reform Bill was introduced, which included provisions to prevent unreasonable refusals of pet requests in rented properties. However, it has yet to become law.
“There simply aren’t enough rental properties to meet demand,” Cornish explained. “As a result, competition for each property is fierce, making it challenging for pet owners.”
“Regrettably, the situation continues to worsen.”
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